Statistics reveal that over 40 million Americans regularly go RVing, with over 25 million RVing each year, which is huge. [1] If you are also an RV traveler, you must have electricity needs—whether it’s to prepare a quick meal, keep the RV home comfortable, or ensure everything is powered up during emergencies.
That’s where a power station comes in. Choosing top-rated RV generators ensures that you have ample power to run appliances, so the RV environment isn’t only convenient but also cozy and worry-free.
If you are eager to learn more about the top-rated RV generators for 2025 and how to choose the right one for your needs, this guide is for you! So, continue reading.
What Type of RV Generator Should I Choose?
We perfectly understand the struggle and confusion that comes when you are trying to pick the top-rated RV generators in the market. To help ease this stress, here’s a detailed explanation of each generator type along with their features:
- The Quietest RV Generator
If you are heading to a serene area or RV park where maintaining peace is most important, then you should opt for some of the quietest, top-rated RV generators like these:
- Inverter Generator
The first option is the inverter generator, which, as the name suggests, uses the inverter to convert AC power to DC power and then invert it back to a more stable AC power for sensitive appliances. It consumes fuel to supply you with consistent electricity that resembles your home’s outlet. Compared to traditional generators, these power sources utilize much less fuel.
It’s because inverter generators adjust the engine speed to match the power demand, so you experience better fuel efficiency and overall longer run times. What’s truly likable about these top-rated RV generators is their quiet operation, thanks to a motor and sound-dampening technology.
- Solar Generator
Another one of the quietest top-rated RV generators is the solar generator. A solar generator utilizes solar panels to capture solar power, which is then converted into electricity through a controller and stored in a battery. Due to the absence of any mechanical moving parts, it is completely noise free and environmentally friendly, suitable for long-term outdoor use.
This ensures whether you are RVing around the stunning lakes in the US or planning to spend the night in the mountains, solar backup generators will not disturb the tranquility of the space.
- The Most Portable RV Generator
Are you looking for some portable, top-rated RV generators to make your trip easy? Well, you can definitely try the following options:
- Gasoline Generator
As the name implies, gasoline generators use gasoline as fuel and convert it into electricity. Its working principle is based on its internal combustion engine, including a gasoline engine and an alternator. The gasoline engine generates power by burning the mixture of gasoline and air, driving the rotor and stator inside the alternator. When the rotor rotates, a magnetic field is generated in the coils of the stator, thereby producing alternating current.
This kind of generator is quite portable due to its small and compact size, making carrying it around a breeze.
- Propane Generator
Propane generators use liquefied petroleum gas as fuel, which is cleaner and more environmentally friendly compared to gasoline. Its working principle is similar to that of a gasoline generator, with lower operating noise and less harmful gas emissions.
Propane generators are usually slightly heavier than gasoline generators but still have good portability and are suitable for RV travelers who have high environmental requirements.
- Solar Generator
The portability of solar generators is unmatchable since they have very few components, with only portable power stations and solar panels. They are compact and lightweight and, on top of this, quite easy to set up. You can take solar generators on your RV trip and stay assured that you will have consistent power without worrying about the additional weight of the generator.
- The Most Economical RV Generator
The electricity bills for your trips should not be expensive, as they can strain your finances. So here are the two most economical, top-rated RV generators that you can rely on:
- Diesel Generator
Firstly, for diesel generators, the price of diesel in the US is around 3.521, down from 4.366 one year ago. [2] This low price means you can purchase this fuel to power your RV without worrying about running out of money.
Moreover, diesel generators are known for their efficient fuel consumption rate, which enables them to maintain economical operation even at low loads. This significantly reduces fuel costs and improves economic efficiency during long-term operation.
- Solar Generator
The best solar generator for RVs is also the most affordable power source. Since these top-rated RV generators rely on solar energy, which is clean and widely available, there are no ongoing fuel costs. Just make an upfront investment and enjoy continuous power for years.
What’s truly amazing is that these solar generators also don’t require extensive maintenance, which further lowers running costs. Just a simple cleaning of solar panels can maintain their high conversion efficiency!
- The Most Environment-Friendly Generator
Global warming is on the rise, and North America’s yearly temperature has grown at an average rate of 0.13°C (0.23°F) since 1910. [3] What you can do is live environmentally, such as make your RV trips cleaner, and a solar travel trailer generator helps you with this.
- Solar Generator
Solar generators are eco-friendly power solutions for your RV. Compared to other top-rated RV generators like gasoline and propane ones, it doesn’t rely on traditional fuel. Instead, solar generators use solar energy, which is totally clean. This means you don’t have to worry about greenhouse gases polluting the environment.
Here’s an overview of the advantages of solar generators as one of the top-rated RV generators:
| Energy Independence | One of the top reasons to opt for solar generators is that they provide you with complete energy independence, ensuring your RV stays illuminated and cozy. |
| Low Cost | Solar generators utilize the sun’s energy, which is available for free, so there are no fuel costs. They also don’t require much maintenance. Simple cleaning is enough to further lower the overall operating cost. |
| Non-Renewable Energy Source | Opting for solar generators as your top-rated RV generators is best as they use solar energy, which is clean and renewable, positively impacting the environment. |
| Quiet Operation | No one likes the loud hum of traditional generators during RV travel. Solar generators don’t have moving parts, so they ensure the peaceful atmosphere of any spot isn’t disturbed. |
Best Solar Generator Options to Try
The following are some top-rated RV generators that you can try:
- Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is a solid option known for its durable build and excellent power output. It boasts a 2 kWh capacity, which is easily expandable to 24 kWh with additional battery packs. What’s impressive about this solar generator is that it can be charged in just two hours using 6 Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panels, so you stay powered up on the RV travel road.
The reliability and durability of this generator are also top-notch, featuring a LiFePO4 battery designed to last up to 10 years even with daily use. After 4,000 charge cycles mark, the generator will still maintain 70% battery efficiency.
Its 62 protective mechanisms, 12 protective algorithms, and four types of physical safety protection make it a safe option for your RV travel power needs.
Other Features:
- TÜV Carbon Neutral Certification
- Lightweight: Its Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station weighs 61.5 lbs(27.9 kg). You can easily place it in your RV.
- Smart App Control: The Jackery App allows you to monitor and control the generator, check its status, and customize settings.
- Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2
If you are looking for something more advanced in features, you cannot go wrong with Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2. Offering a 2042Wh capacity and a 2200W output, it powers most of your RV appliances, ranging from refrigerators to air conditioners.
The cherry on the cake is that its Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station is 40% more compact and 34% lighter than other models and weighs surprisingly 17.9 kg. Thanks to its compact honeycomb design, you can easily store it in your RV.
Its uninterruptible power supply (UPS) function and swift response time of ≤20 milliseconds provide you with an uninterrupted power supply. The next generation LiFePO4 battery further promises long-lasting performance.
Other Features
- Quiet Operation: Operates at noise levels under 30 dB, ensuring a peaceful RV environment.
- Fast Charging Capability: Using only 1.7 hours via Wall Charging Emergency Super Charge and 7.5 hours via 2 Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panels.
- Smart App Control: Allows for real-time monitoring, control, and customization to match specific power needs.
- Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is yet another one of the top-rated RV generators for RV enthusiasts who need a reliable power source. It offers a 3024Wh capacity, big enough to power 99% of outdoor RV appliances.
The ultra-fast charging feature ensures the generator is fully charged in as little as 3 to 4 hours via solar panels or 2.4 hours via wall outlets. Moreover, this generator features a pull rod and wheels that make maneuvering it a breeze.
The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Plus also performs efficiently in cold weather as it remains functional in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C).
Other Features
- Fully Upgraded BMS: Ensure all-around safety.
- Advanced Temperature Safety: Nine temperature sensors for peak temperature management and safety.
- Smart Monitoring: Accessible and manageable through smart app control.
How Should I Choose the Solar Generator Capacity for My RV?
After understanding the various capacities of solar generators mentioned above, which capacity is most suitable for your RV travel? Here are some considerations:
- Electricity Demand for RV
The first thing you should do is assess the electricity demand of your RV. Get an idea of the total number of appliances you are going to run on the RV and pen down their wattages. Sum the watts of all these devices and machines to understand the total electricity demand and purchase a generator that has this much or more capacity.
- The Number of Appliances Used Simultaneously
You should also pay attention to the appliances that will run simultaneously and opt for top-rated RV generators that can easily handle that much power draw at once without any damage.
- Budget
Budget is one of the most important factors that you should consider when choosing the best solar generator for your RV. Make sure the generator you are opting for offers you the desired capacity and also fits within your budget.
- Local Lighting Conditions
This is the most critical thing you should look at — evaluate the sunlight exposure in areas you plan to travel to. For areas with less sufficient sunlight, it is recommended to carry more efficient solar panels to ensure sufficient electricity.
- Available Space for Generators
Well, it goes without saying that check if your RV has enough space to store the solar generator. If not, you should first create a separate area where you’ll place the generator when not in use.
FAQs
- What factors should be considered when installing and selecting solar panels?
When installing and selecting solar panels, you should consider the conversion efficiency, tilt angles, lighting conditions, space for installation, and overall energy requirements.
- How to maintain solar panels?
To maintain solar panels, you should tend to regular cleaning to clear dust and debris from the panel’s surface. Inspect the panels for damage or any obstruction that might hinder solar energy from reaching them and also replace damaged electrical connections for enhanced safety.
- How should Jackery’s solar power station be stored?
Jackery solar power stations can be stored easily in a small space in your RV, but make sure the storage area is cool, dry, and well-ventilated. Also, keep them away from flammable materials to avoid any unfortunate incident.
Conclusion
Finding the top-rated RV generator for RV trailers isn’t easy, as you have to go through many options ranging from propane to gas and solar generators. However, Jackery solar generators emerge as the top-rated RV generators as they are durable, high-capacity, quiet, economical, and come with a long warranty. So get these eco-friendly power solutions from Jackery today and make your RV travel smooth and clean!
References
[1] 61 RV Industry Statistics & Trends. Available at: https://www.bookcleango.com/blog/rv-industry-statistics (Accessed: November 20, 2024)
[2] US Retail Diesel Price (I: USRDP). Available at: https://ycharts.com/indicators/us_retail_diesel_price (Accessed: November 20, 2024)
[3] Global Temperatures. Available at: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/monthly-report/global/202213 (Accessed: November 20, 2024)
